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Paula Deen’s Green Bean Casserole – A Classic Southern Comfort Dish

When it comes to comforting, homestyle cooking, no one does it quite like Paula Deen. Her famous Green Bean Casserole is a creamy, savory, and perfectly crispy classic that has graced countless Southern tables — especially during Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners. This dish is everything you want from comfort food: tender green beans baked in a rich, creamy sauce, topped with crunchy fried onions and melted cheese. Every bite is warm, nostalgic, and full of love — a true Southern staple that never goes out of style. Whether you’re preparing a holiday feast, bringing a side dish to a potluck, or simply craving a cozy family dinner, Paula Deen’s Green Bean Casserole is that tried-and-true recipe that delivers every time.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Here’s what you’ll need for Paula Deen’s Green Bean Casserole:
🥦 Fruits & Vegetables
  • 4 cups green beans fresh or canned; drained if using canned
  • 1 small onion finely diced (optional for added flavor)
🥫 Canned Goods
  • 1 10.5 oz can cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 cup chicken broth
🧂 Culinary Aids & Spices
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder optional for extra flavor
🧀 Dairy
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ¾ cup sour cream
🧄 Toppings
  • 1 ½ cups crispy fried onions
🫒 Oils & Fats
  • 1 tablespoon butter for greasing or sautéing onions
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Equipment

  • To make this creamy, comforting casserole, you’ll need:
  • Large saucepan
  • Mixing bowl
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Oven mitts

Method
 

  1. Follow these simple steps to create the perfect creamy, crispy green bean casserole — Paula Deen style!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Green Beans
  1. If using fresh green beans, blanch them first:
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  3. Add the beans and cook for 3–4 minutes, just until bright green and slightly tender.
  4. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
  5. If using canned or frozen beans, simply drain (and thaw if needed).
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
  1. In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine:
  2. Cream of mushroom soup
  3. Chicken broth
  4. Sour cream
  5. Salt and pepper
  6. Garlic powder (if using)
  7. Stir until smooth and heated through, about 3–5 minutes.
  8. Add in half of the cheddar cheese and stir until melted.
Step 4: Combine Everything
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the green beans with the creamy sauce.
  2. Fold in ½ cup of the fried onions for added crunch inside the casserole.
  3. Mix gently until the beans are evenly coated.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
  1. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
  2. Smooth the top evenly with a spatula.
  3. Bake uncovered for 25 minutes.
Step 6: Add the Topping
  1. Remove from the oven and sprinkle the top with the remaining cheddar cheese and crispy fried onions.
  2. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10–12 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
  1. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with a sprinkle of black pepper or a few fresh parsley leaves for color.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
To Store:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To Freeze:
Freeze before baking for up to 2 months.
When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
To Reheat:
Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes until hot and bubbly.
You can also reheat single portions in the microwave for 1–2 minutes.
🥄 Variations
Give this comforting classic your own twist with these flavorful variations:
Cheesy Upgrade: Add mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even Gruyère for a richer taste.
Fresh Mushroom Mix: Sauté sliced mushrooms and onions in butter before adding to the casserole.
Bacon-Free Crunch: Sprinkle crispy turkey bits instead of pork bacon for a smoky flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the creamy sauce.
Loaded Green Bean Casserole: Stir in diced cooked chicken or turkey for a heartier version.
Vegan-Friendly Option: Use coconut cream, vegan cheese, and plant-based crispy onions.
Gluten-Free Version: Substitute gluten-free fried onions and a gluten-free cream soup.
❓ 10 FAQs
1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the casserole (without the topping), cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Add the cheese and onions before baking.
2. Can I use canned soup alternatives?
If you prefer homemade, make a quick white sauce with butter, flour, milk, and mushrooms.
3. Can I use fresh green beans instead of canned?
Yes! Fresh green beans give the dish a crisp, fresh flavor — just blanch them first.
4. How do I keep fried onions crispy?
Add them only in the last 10 minutes of baking to prevent sogginess.
5. Can I double the recipe?
Definitely! Use a larger baking dish and increase bake time by about 10 minutes.
6. What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
Try cream of chicken or cream of celery for a different twist.
7. Can I add extra vegetables?
Yes — diced bell peppers, corn, or mushrooms blend beautifully.
8. Is this casserole freezer-friendly?
Yes, just make sure to freeze it before baking for best texture.
9. Can I make this dairy-free?
Use dairy-free cheese, coconut cream, and vegan butter for similar richness.
10. What’s the best main dish to serve this with?
It pairs perfectly with roasted chicken, turkey, grilled steak, or baked salmon.
🏁 Conclusion
Paula Deen’s Green Bean Casserole is a timeless classic that embodies the heart of Southern comfort food — creamy, cheesy, and perfectly crispy. It’s that nostalgic dish that always brings warmth to the table, whether it’s for the holidays or a simple weeknight dinner.
With its creamy sauce, tender green beans, and golden onion topping, this casserole is easy to prepare and impossible to resist. Paula Deen’s signature touch of sour cream and cheese elevates the dish beyond the traditional version, giving it that signature rich flavor that everyone loves.
So the next time you’re craving a comforting side that tastes like home, whip up this Green Bean Casserole. It’s simple, flavorful, and full of Southern charm — the kind of recipe that turns every meal into a celebration.